The recent vote to more than double the salaries of Park City’s elected officials is deeply troubling. Mayor Ryan Dickey’s pay will jump from $55,209 to $116,666, while councilors’ compensation rises from $28,520 to $58,333. These figures place Park City far above peer ski towns and even larger cities like Phoenix and Dallas, where mayors earn less despite far greater responsibilities.
What makes this decision worse is the timing. Only months into their terms, the majority chose to enrich themselves rather than wait until the next election cycle. This erodes public trust and creates the appearance of self‑dealing. Councilor Bill Ciraco was right to dissent, reminding us that public service is meant to be service, not a full‑time career with executive‑level pay.
Arrogance might be tolerated. Bad judgment might be forgiven. But arrogance combined with bad judgment is a dangerous mix. Parkites should remember this when the next election arrives. Accountability is the only antidote.
JF Lanvers
Park City